General News
27 January, 2026
Council prioritise local youth
Central Goldfields Shire Council’s (CGSC) push to engage young people is gradually picking up momentum, with the appointment of their new youth officer, Kyan Laslett O’Brien
The new youth officer wants to ramp up the participation of young people across the shire, in a move to revamp CGSC’s Youth Council and give young people a stronger voice in shaping local initiatives.
Mr Laslett O’Brien has previously worked with youth in the Mount Alexander region, with projects including a sold-out pop-up cafe and an art show curated by local teens, events that celebrate creativity and community connection.
“These are examples of some of the successes I’ve had, but I’m always open to new ideas,” he said.
“We really want to hear the voice of youth across our shire, creating opportunities for all kinds of young people. It all starts with a core group, so I’m inviting those in the 14 to 24 age group to come out and join in.”
Following years of experience working with young people in central Victoria, Mr Laslett O’Brien said he was keen to champion youth-led projects that build confidence and skills.
“The Central Goldfields has strong sports participation, but we can also add enterprise, expression, performance, starting a band, helping each other with schoolwork, this is what I’m hearing as I meet more of our local youth,” he said.
CGSC’s Youth Council had a hiatus in 2025 as a feasibility study was underway, reassessing the needs of local young people, and observing successful models from other shires. While findings are still being refined, Mr Laslett O’Brien said the appointment of local young people is vital progress toward a return of a Youth Hub in Maryborough.
“I’d really like to see a permanent youth space where people can just hang out, talk, try new things, plus have the ear and support of our council proper,” he said.
CGSC mayor Ben Green said creating new opportunities for local youth was important for the shire.
“I’m thrilled about the appointment of our new youth officer — especially one with so much experience. Kyan can offer broader opportunities to that whole age group between 14 and 24 years,” he said.
“It’s important we keep offering new possibilities to our young people alongside our vibrant local sports.
“I’m especially looking forward to hearing the voice of youth through the continuation of our Youth Council. This will encourage the emergence of future leaders in our community, and those young people who participate gain a vital insight into how local government works.”
Applications for Youth Council open on February 5 and can be made online, on your smartphone or on paper via www.centralgoldfields.vic.
gov.au/youthcouncil
The new Youth Officer can also be contacted directly at youth@
cgoldshire.vic.gov.au